Maru pledges support for soccer in district

By BRADLEY MARIORI in Wewak
YANGORU-SAUSSIA MP Richard Maru has pledged his support towards soccer in his district after an association in the district had gone a step ahead to register and train its match coordinators.
He made the commitment after the Numbo Sembo Sports Association registered under the Investment Promotion Authority and secured Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) training for its officials, referees and coaches.
At total of 42 referees, coaches and officials graduated with certificates yesterday.
All the costs were met by Henimba Limited managing director Andrias Hombo who said that he wanted to see change in the Numbo local-level government area and Yangoru-Saussia.
Maru said the same training would be conducted throughout the electorate.
He said they would support soccer with whatever resources the district had.
“For the first five to seven years, we were funding infrastructures,” Maru said.
“From next year, we will support soccer. I would also like to announce that the Maru Cup will return in Easter and I commit K100,000 for this tournament.
“We will work with schools, clubs and associations to improve soccer in the district.”
Hombo said his aim was to help improve soccer in the district.
“I want good sportsmanship and I will be happy to continue my support,” he said.
“We must bring sports to the next level in the district.
“I’d like to thank PNGSF for its time and support.
“Selections will be made from this tournament and the best players will make up two teams who will be competing in the Toti Cup in Lae next month.